Storyline: Dwight Howard’s days in Houston are likely over. Where to next? The smart move is Miami. Here’s why. Written by Taylor Odenat. Read Taylor’s blog here.
Dwight Howard will be an unrestricted free agent at season’s end. When Howard was a free agent a few seasons ago, he didn’t handle the situation all that well. Before his contract was terminated with the Magic he forced his way out of Orlando and was granted a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers in a four-team deal.
Courtesy: probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com
After joining the Houston Rockets with huge aspirations a few seasons ago, Howard has yet to eclipse the Western Conference Finals. And there were stirring rumors that Howard and James Harden tried to get each other shipped off. With Howard developing durability issues and problems with the franchise’s top player, it seems his time in H-Town has come to an end. The only question now is where will Howard sign in free agency?
Since his departure from Orlando, Howard hasn’t made a significant impact on an organization. And at this point it might be too late. His statistics might disagree with that statement, considering he averaged a double-double both this past regular season with the Rockets and the season prior to his exit from the Lakers. However that performance level hasn’t allowed him to capture the championship ring that he covets so dearly. He isn’t getting any younger, and he isn’t the same commanding force that he once was.
Once upon a time there was no discussion for who was going to win Defensive Player of the Year. From 2008-2011, DH12 dominated the annual award. He finished third the year he didn’t win the trophy. But, today, Howard is an aging center with knee and back concerns. Is the man once monikered, “Superman,“ still worth a max contract?
Source: Wikipedia.com
DH12 has botched his tenures at his last two locations, so the fourth time has to be the charm. His free agent decision will come down who can provide him with the highest salary or who give him the opportunity to win a championship. After reports of Howard considering a return to Orlando, it looks like he’s seeking the highest salary. Joining the Magic would be an awful decision. Only a mere four years have passed since that terrible situation. Howard wouldn’t propel the roster to be a championship contender and he’s not much of a veteran leader to mentor younger players.
Dwight could find a new home in a young team with a dynamic roster and innovative coach, such as the Boston Celtics. But I think their money should be used elsewhere. There’s also the possibility of cashing out and inking a contract with a team that has no chance of winning in the foreseeable future, like the Philadelphia 76ers. However that would be a bad move for both Howard and Philly.
So, after Dwight eliminates all of the nonsensical options, he should take a trip to Miami and having a meeting with Pat Riley. The Miami Heat should be one of Howard’s prime destinations.
Courtesy: zimbio.co,
Howard would join a roster in title contention with a intelligent coach, cunning front office, and tons of veterans, lead by superstar Dwyane Wade. Hassan Whiteside, the currently center, has experienced rapid development. However, he’s an unrestricted free agent and will command tons of dollars. If the Heat decide to part ways with Whiteside, then Howard is a great second option. Miami will pay less money for the aging center than they would for the shot blocking extraordinaire.
Both sides benefit with this deal. Howard gets a strong chance at a ring and Miami won’t have to pay the steep price to retain Whiteside. DH12 should consider his options, test the waters, but eventually sign a contract sending him to the “Magic City.”
